Apical dominance in higher plants is due to

Options

A. Balance between auxins and cytokinins
B. Enzyme activity
C. Carbohydrates and nitrogen ratio
D. Incorrect photoperiod

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Apical Dominance**: Apical dominance refers to the phenomenon in higher plants where the main central stem grows more robustly than the lateral branches. This leads to the suppression of lateral bud growth.

2. **Role of Plant Hormones**: The primary hormones involved in apical dominance are auxins and cytokinins. Auxins are produced at the shoot tip and play a crucial role in promoting the growth of the main stem.

3. **Auxin Function**: Auxins inhibit the growth of lateral buds, which is why the central stem remains dominant. This is a key aspect of apical dominance.

4. **Cytokinin Function**: Cytokinins, on the other hand, promote the growth of lateral buds and can break apical dominance when their levels are higher relative to auxins.

5. **Balance Between Auxin and Cytokinin**: The phenomenon of apical dominance is maintained by the balance between these two hormones. A higher concentration of auxins leads to stronger apical dominance, while an increase in cytokinins can lead to the growth of lateral buds.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, apical dominance in higher plants is due to the balance between auxin and cytokinin.

**Final Answer**: Apical dominance in higher plants is due to the balance between auxin and cytokinin.

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